by 18 Sep 2023
Getting ready for Umrah might feel a bit overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. But don’t worry, we’re here to help! We’ve put together a list of important things to bring and some handy tips from people who have done Umrah before. This way, you can feel more prepared and less stressed about packing for your trip to Makkah!
1. Valid passport and Visa
Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date you arrive in Saudi Arabia. As for your Visa, other than its use as a permit, you’ll also need it to purchase a Sim card and access the Nusuk app.
Tips: It’s advisable to keep photocopies of your passport and Visa easily accessible for your convenience, and as a backup in case your original documents are lost or stolen.
2. Ihram Clothing
Men must wear two white, seamless cloths, one worn around the waist, the other over the left shoulder. It’s best to opt for clothes that are made from cotton, as they are more comfortable and breathable in the hot climate. Women, on the other hand, are allowed to wear any clothing of their choice as long as it is loose-fitting, does not have any decorative elements, and covers their entire body, except for their faces and hands.
3. Comfortable Footwear
Performing Umrah requires you to be on your feet for an extended amount of time, so be sure to pack comfortable and clean footwear. Ladies may also purchase Khuf (leather socks) from nearby supermarkets in Makkah. Men may choose to bring a pair of slippers or sandals, as they are required to keep their ankles, heels and insteps exposed while in the state of Ihram.
Here’s a tip: Bring a plastic bag or a shoe bag to keep your shoes in while entering the mosque to avoid losing them.
4. Personal Hygiene Items
This includes toothbrush, toothpaste, lip balm, soap, shampoo, skincare, and other toiletries. You may want to bring an unscented soap or face wash, if you would like to freshen up while being in the state of Ihram.
Tip: Remember to bring a small pair of scissors for the final Umrah ritual, Tahallul. This ritual involves cutting a few strands of your hair, or shaving for men.
5. Medications
Common medications such as Panadol, cough syrups & allergy medications are available in the pharmacies. However, if you are taking any prescribed medications, ensure that you bring enough for the whole trip.
6. Cash and Credit Card
Most shops accept card payments; however, it is best to prepare some cash for small purchases or giving charity. Small shops in shopping malls prefer cash instead of credit cards. Much like e-wallets, there are also mobile applications available for you to download to make purchases, such as Youtrip and Revolut.
7. Travel Adapter and Portable Charger
Saudi Arabia’s power plug is type G, which is the plug that has three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. Be sure to bring a travel adapter to be able to charge your smartphone and other devices. It is also recommended to bring a portable charger, as you may spend a long time outside of your hotel room.
Tip: Bringing an extension plug may be useful, especially for larger families.
8. Water Bottle
Bringing a water bottle is a good way to ensure that you stay hydrated, and you may refill your bottle with Zam Zam water from the many water dispensers available in Masjid Al-Haram and Masjid An-Nabawi.
9. Sunscreen and Sunglasses
Makkah and Madinah can get extremely hot, especially in the summer months, so be sure to use sunscreen!
10. Prayer Mat
Due to the overwhelming crowd, sometimes you may have to pray on the concrete floor or outside of the mosque, so it’s recommended to bring your own personal mat for hygiene and comfort.
11. Prayer Essentials
This includes a pocket Quran, tasbih, a compiled Doa book, as well as an Umrah guide book. It may also be helpful to list down all the supplications that you’d like to make so that you do not miss out any.
The list provided may not cover every possible item you might need, but it serves as a helpful initial guide to get you started with preparing for your trip! What you pack ultimately depends on two key factors: how long you plan to stay and your personal preferences.
So, as you begin packing your journey, use this list as starting point, and feel free to tailor it your preferences. Happy packing!
